There were no TYTs, Anytone or other cheap radios. The “affordable” HT was a well used XPR6550. From a performance and also feature standpoint, it is still one of my favorites.
I bought the XPR6550 because;
- During the early days of DMR, it was the cheapest HT I could find
Here is what I like:
- Excellent sound quality.
- Part 90
- DMR Roaming
- 1000 channels
- GPS
- It simply just Works!
- Solid tough case – it feels like quality!
- Plenty of fancy features; some of which I am using.
- Replaceable case
- Physically the most robust radio
- Solid feel
- Zones are well organized and copyable between XPR models
Here is what i don’t like:
- Price – Yes, there is a reason why – it is indestructible!
- Single Band
- Not enough memory for Contacts
- Expensive CPS
- Fairly Heavy, but it feels like quality!
- Expensive accessories
- No MAC CPS
Programming:
All programming takes place through the typical Motorola computer program we have seen for so many of the DMR radios. The Moto CPS has many more features like copy and paste etc between Moto radios. Software works well, although maybe not as simple as most ham programs.
Conclusion:
The XPR6550 is one of my favorite radios. I carry this as my daily “workhorse”. No need to be afraid of dropping it. It is a tank. I will always be on the lookout for more as long as the price is right. It is “bullet proof” performer. I love the roaming feature when traveling in DMR saturated areas with consistent repeaters like Connecticut. Being able to travel and auto switch repeaters is amazing! I just wish it was dual band and that I could afford it!